Jim Kenney, Former Councilman, Elected Mayor of Philadelphia

Naming a new police commissioner and figuring out the education crisis are just two of the tasks that lie ahead for Jim Kenney as Philadelphia's mayor. (Published Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2015)

Former longtime Councilman Jim Kenney was elected mayor on Tuesday on a promise to push for universal prekindergarten education and step up efforts to fight poverty.

Kenney, a Democrat, overwhelmed his Republican challenger, business executive Melissa Murray Bailey, in a city that hasn't had a GOP mayor since 1952 and where the primary is considered the more important election.

Philadelphia, which has about 1.5 million residents, has been on the upswing in recent years, helped by a building boom and an influx of millennials and empty-nesters spurring new bars, restaurants and condo projects.

The city has won international acclaim as a tourist destination for its rich history, boasting the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, and its arts scene, featuring The Barnes Foundation museum, the Rodin Museum and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where Sylvester Stallone run up the steps in "Rocky." The city just hosted Pope Francis and will welcome the Democratic National Convention in July.

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What's more, the poverty rate remains stubbornly high. Recent Census data put it at just over 26 percent, the highest among the nation's 10 largest cities.

Kenney sees universal pre-K, a hallmark of fellow liberal Bill de Blasio's first year as New York City's mayor, as a prong in attacking poverty and an investment in neighborhoods long suffering from high joblessness and crime.

He wants job training for people who have been without work or who are re-entering society after time in prison and reforms to reduce the high percentage of people stuck in jail while awaiting trial because they can't afford bail.

In 23 years on the City Council, Kenney, 57, successfully backed marijuana decriminalization and supported penalties for gender identity and sexual orientation hate crimes.

Philadelphia Democratic mayoral candidate Jim Kenney greets a supporter during an election night event at the National Museum of American Jewish History, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015, in Philadelphia. Kenney, a former longtime councilman, overwhelmed his Republican challenger, business executive Melissa Murray Bailey, in a city that hasn't had a GOP mayor since 1952.
Photo credit: AP

Kenney had the backing of most city unions, including an endorsement from the Fraternal Order of Police. He also enjoyed widespread support from the city's gay community and immigrant groups.

Kenney said he supported keeping Philadelphia a sanctuary city for immigrants who entered the country illegally.